5 Day Trips To Take During Your Emerald Isle NC Vacations

Planning Emerald Isle NC vacations? You might explore the Crystal Coast further. Here are 5 great day trip ideas to take, all less than an hour away.

Emerald Isle is the kind of place where time slows down, and the biggest decision of the day is whether to head to the beach or grab another seafood platter. But while the island itself offers miles of soft sand and stunning sunsets, some of the best adventures lie just beyond its shores, along the Crystal Coast.

A short drive or ferry ride will take you to historic waterfront towns, untouched barrier islands, and scenic state parks teeming with wildlife. In this post, we’ll show you five fantastic day trip ideas, each less than an hour away from Emerald Isle, NC.

Before We Start…

At Spinnaker’s Reach, we provide a fantastic selection of short-term rentals in Emerald Isle, North Carolina, including options with pools and pet-friendly accommodations. For great insider tips on Emerald Isle, check out our destination blog. We cover everything about the region, including tips for a romantic getaway, a guide to fishing, and the best day trips you can take from Emerald Isle. 

Ready to start planning your Emerald Isle vacation?

TL;DR: Crystal Coast Day Trips at a Glance

• History in Beaufort – Explore colonial homes, maritime museums, and pirate lore.
• Small-town charm in Swansboro – Stroll downtown, dine by the river, and kayak nearby waters.
• Adventure at Hammocks Beach State Park – Paddle to Bear Island for secluded beaches and nature.
• Wild beauty on Shackleford Banks – See wild horses and collect rare seashells.
• Classic coastal fun in Atlantic Beach – Enjoy lively beaches, waterfront dining, and nightlife.
  
  

1. Beaufort: A Walk Through History

Beaufort, North Carolina’s third-oldest town, is a charming waterfront destination steeped in maritime history. Less than an hour away, this is one of the best day trips to take during Emerald Isle NC Vacations. Beaufort feels like stepping back in time, with 18th-century homes lining quiet, oak-shaded streets. The town’s historic district is compact and walkable, making it easy to explore at your own pace.

Front Street: Shops, Cafés, and Coastal Views

Start with a stroll along Front Street, where you can browse coastal boutiques, stop for coffee at Turner Street Market, or sit by the docks watching sailboats sway in Taylor’s Creek.

Just across the water lies the Rachel Carson Reserve, home to a herd of wild horses that have roamed the island for centuries. The best way to see them is by kayak or on a small boat tour, but if you’re lucky, you might spot them grazing from the Beaufort waterfront.

Pirates, Legends, and Maritime History

For a dose of pirate history, visit the North Carolina Maritime Museum, which houses artifacts from Blackbeard’s ship, the Queen Anne’s Revenge. Beaufort’s past is full of seafaring legends, and a guided tour of the Old Burying Ground will introduce you to some of the town’s most fascinating (and ghostly) stories.

Seafood with a Side of Coastal Charm

End your visit with fresh seafood at Aqua or a casual meal at Clawson’s, where you can dig into local specialties like shrimp and grits.

When to Go & How to Get There

Getting to Beaufort from Emerald Isle is easy — it’s about a 45-minute drive, and parking is available in and around the historic district. The best time to visit is spring through fall, when mild temperatures make walking the town especially pleasant.

2. Swansboro: Small-Town Coastal Charm

Just 20 minutes from Emerald Isle, Swansboro is a tiny town with a big personality. Nicknamed the “Friendly City by the Sea,” it has a welcoming, relaxed atmosphere, perfect for a leisurely day trip. The heart of Swansboro is its historic downtown, where you’ll find waterfront restaurants, art galleries, and boutique shops selling everything from coastal décor to handmade jewelry.

Waterfront Dining and River Views

One of the best ways to experience Swansboro is by taking a seat at Saltwater Grill, a waterfront restaurant offering stunning views of the White Oak River. After lunch, wander through the local shops or grab an ice cream cone and watch the boats drift by. If you’re feeling adventurous, rent a kayak and paddle through the calm waters of the river, where you might spot egrets, dolphins, and even the occasional sea turtle.

Hammocks Beach State Park: A Hidden Gem

The real highlight, though, is Hammocks Beach State Park, a short drive from downtown. This state park is home to Bear Island, an undeveloped, four-mile stretch of pristine beach accessible only by ferry or kayak. The journey there is half the adventure—paddling through salt marshes, spotting ospreys overhead, and eventually pulling up on one of the most untouched beaches in the region. There are no restaurants or shops on Bear Island, so bring water, snacks, and plenty of sunscreen if you plan to stay for the afternoon.

When to Go & How to Get There

Swansboro is an easy year-round destination, but spring and early fall are ideal for kayaking and walking the town without the summer crowds.

3. Shackleford Banks: Where Wild Horses Roam

For those who love nature and don’t mind a bit of sand in their shoes, Shackleford Banks offers one of the most unique day trips from Emerald Isle. This remote barrier island, part of the Cape Lookout National Seashore, is famous for its population of wild horses, believed to be descendants of Spanish mustangs that survived shipwrecks centuries ago.

Wild Beauty and Secluded Beaches

Getting to Shackleford Banks requires a short ferry ride from Beaufort or Harkers Island, and once you arrive, you’re on your own—there are no facilities, just miles of dunes, windswept grasses, and the occasional sight of a stallion leading his herd across the shore. The island is also one of the best places for shelling on the Crystal Coast, with conch, whelk, and sand dollars commonly washing up along the beach.

Tips for Visiting

While you can certainly visit for a few hours, Shackleford Banks rewards those who linger. Bring a picnic, find a quiet stretch of sand, and let the natural beauty of this untamed island sink in. The best time to visit is in the morning, when the temperatures are cooler, and the horses are more active.

4. Fort Macon State Park: A Blend of History and Scenery

For history buffs, Fort Macon State Park is a fascinating stop that combines military history with coastal scenery. Located on the eastern tip of Bogue Banks, about 40 minutes from Emerald Isle, the park is centered around a well-preserved Civil War-era fort, complete with underground tunnels, cannon placements, and panoramic views of the Atlantic.

Exploring the Fort and Coastal Trails

The fort itself is free to enter and offers self-guided and ranger-led tours. If you’re visiting during the summer, don’t miss the cannon-firing demonstrations and historical reenactments, which bring the fort’s past to life. Beyond the fort, the park boasts scenic hiking trails and a stretch of quiet beach that’s perfect for a relaxing walk or a quick swim.

When to Go

While Fort Macon is open year-round, spring and fall are the most comfortable times to explore, as summer temperatures can be quite hot.

5. Atlantic Beach: Classic Coastal Fun

If you’re looking for a livelier day trip with a mix of beach time, dining, and entertainment, Atlantic Beach is the place to go. Just over 30 minutes from Emerald Isle, this small beach town has a more developed boardwalk, a variety of waterfront restaurants, and some of the best nightlife on the Crystal Coast.

Beachside Fun and Local Flavor

Spend the day lounging on the beach, rent a jet ski for an adrenaline rush, or grab a drink at The Tackle Box Tavern, a laid-back beachfront bar with live music on summer nights. For a special dinner, head to Amos Mosquito’s, a local favorite known for its creative seafood dishes and cozy atmosphere.

Extra Tips: Planning Your Day Trips

Each of these destinations offers something unique and are accessible year-round, though spring and fall provide pleasant weather with fewer crowds.

If you’re visiting in peak summer months, it’s best to set out early to avoid traffic and secure parking, especially in places like Atlantic Beach and Beaufort. Wherever you go, bring sunscreen, water, and a sense of adventure—there’s always something new to discover along the Crystal Coast.

2 Great Places to Stay During Emerald Isle NC Vacations

Scilly Cat

Scilly Cat is a three-story, mint-green retreat featuring a private kidney-shaped pool, spacious tiled living area, and elevator. With a bunk room and two king suites, it comfortably accommodates all. Enjoy open-concept living, time on the sunny screened porch, and quick golf cart rides to the nearby beach. Despite the name, Scilly Cat welcomes two dogs (no cats!).

Kilindi

Kilindi is a serene, modern escape featuring stylish decor, a remodeled kitchen, and a spacious living area with large windows overlooking the pond. Enjoy the private pool, outdoor shower, and volleyball field, or relax on the screened porch. With king-suite comfort and a rockin’ kids’ rec room, everyone’s happy here. Grab the golf cart for an easy beach ride.

Make the Most of Your Emerald Isle NC Vacations

Experience Emerald Isle like a local by staying in a short-term rental. At Spinnaker’s Reach Realty, we have an amazing selection of properties offering the perfect combination of privacy, stunning coastal views, and a cozy atmosphere, ensuring a truly relaxing getaway and a five-star experience on Emerald Isle.